Q. What is the side effects of chemical peel?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
When you get a chemical peel, it's like giving your skin a really deep clean. But just like with any deep cleaning process, there can be some side effects to watch out for. Here are some of the common ones:
1. Redness: Your skin might get pretty red after a chemical peel, especially right after the treatment. This is totally normal and usually goes away on its own after a few days.
2. Peeling or Flaking: Depending on how deep the peel goes, your skin might start to peel or flake off a few days after the treatment. It's like shedding old skin to reveal fresh, new skin underneath. It might look a bit weird, but again, it's totally normal.
3. Dryness: Chemical peels can make your skin feel dry and tight, kind of like when you spend too much time in the sun without sunscreen. Make sure to moisturize your skin regularly to keep it hydrated.
4. Sensitivity: Your skin might be more sensitive to things like sunlight or certain skincare products after a chemical peel. It's important to be gentle with your skin and avoid harsh products or excessive sun exposure for a little while.
5. Itching or Irritation: Sometimes, your skin might feel itchy or irritated after a chemical peel. Try not to scratch or rub at it too much, as this can make things worse. If it's really bothering you, you can ask your dermatologist for advice on how to soothe the irritation.
6. Changes in Pigmentation: In rare cases, a chemical peel can cause changes in your skin's pigmentation, leading to either darker or lighter patches. This is more common in people with darker skin tones. Make sure to discuss any concerns about pigmentation changes with your dermatologist before getting a peel.
7. Infection: While it's rare, there's a small risk of infection with any kind of skin treatment. Make sure to follow your dermatologist's instructions carefully and keep your skin clean to minimize this risk.
Overall, most people tolerate chemical peels quite well, and any side effects are usually mild and temporary. But if you ever have any concerns or if something doesn't seem quite right, don't hesitate to reach out to your dermatologist for advice. They're there to help you get the best results while keeping your skin safe and healthy.